Project Goal

TO RESTORE THE HISTORIC O'CONNOR-PROCTOR BUILDING AND COURTYARD FOR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE USE

Project Objectives

• To restore a prominent Texas Historical Landmark structure
• To provide additional space for programs supporting the general welfare of women and children
• To afford extra learning areas for Children's Discovery Museum participants
• To make available added meeting, reception, and entertainment space for area organizations, groups, and individuals
• To increase accessibility, safety, and security of the building
• To generate rental income for ongoing maintenance of the structure
• To complete the rehabilitation of the 200 block of North Main

Extensive methodology for the above objectives is being developed in an in depth Master Plan by renowned preservation architect David Hoffman, who stated,"Not only is the O'Connor-Proctor Building one of the most significant architectural structures in Victoria, but (the) proposed concept for restoration and adaptive use of the building is so supportive of the worthwhile community goals for the downtown area."

Downtown Revitalization
Preceded by the Courthouse and the Gazebo, the O’Connor-Proctor Building will anchor a strong diagonal line of the most significant and recently restored architectural structures on DeLeon Plaza. Its corner location will double the building’s visual impact and complete the rehabilitation of the 200 block of North Main, home to the Children’s Discovery Museum and Victoria’s new Performing Arts Center.

Architectural and Historical Significance
Among other uses, this 1895 building has been home to the O’Connor-Proctor Law Offices, Breeden and Lackey Hardware, Our Lady of Lourdes Church, and The Open Door Creativity Center. It also served as an emergency hospital during the influenza epidemic of 1918 and Officers Quarters during W.W.II. A Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, this structure is also listed on The National Register of Historic Places.

Restoration Urgency
Currently, the building suffers from extensive damage due primarily to water drainage problems and the 2003 hurricane. Priority work includes sensitive repairs to windows, doors and masonry. Additionally, a creative water management plan is needed to eliminate the building’s retention of moisture.

Community Need
Especially during the busy fall and spring seasons, it is often difficult to book the 14 mid-to-large-sized rental spaces in the Victoria area for special events. The downstairs and courtyard renovations will add a much-needed public rental space, particularly scarce in the historic downtown area.

Junior League Operations
Since 1984, this building has served as headquarters for the Junior League of Victoria. Minor second floor changes will allow the League to move its operations upstairs and so continue its distinguished history of accomplishment. Once renovated, the ground floor and courtyard will become available for public use, as well as special League and Children’s Museum functions.

Junior League Support
In 2004, the League committed almost $80,000 for initial planning and restoration efforts, along with at least 95% of its 2005 Charity Ball revenues. In the future, the League will also assume maintenance and operation expenses not covered by rental fees, as necessary.

Project Overview and Timeline:
Recruit a Steering Committee	August 2004	Achieved
Secure funding for master plan	August 2004	Achieved
Hire noted preservation architect	September 2004	Achieved
Determine master plan components	September 2004	Achieved
Develop funding plan for Phase I of project	December 2004	Achieved
Complete master plan for phased restoration	February 2005	Achieved
Secure funding for Phase I of project	September 2005	Achieved
Complete Phase I of restoration	September 2007	In Progress

O'Connor-Proctor Steering Committee:
Melissa Bales	Mary Cox	Gary Dunnam
Amy Elliott, Chair	Penni Gietz	Elizabeth Kopecky
Mary Logan	Channing McCormick	Amy Mundy Co-Chair
Elizabeth Rogers	Kathryn Schaper	Rachel Seerden
Linda Seerden	Sandra Williams
O'Connor-Proctor Building Restoration Donations